Summer Holidays and Social Media

Dear Resident,

We are now at that time of the year where summer holidays are in the forefront of people's minds, this could include heading abroad or taking in some of the great holiday spots and scenery in the UK.

I often see people posting on social media that they are going on holiday with comments such as “See you in 2 weeks” and a picture at the airport or the car packed, holiday count downs are also added to profiles, providing an exact date when the holiday is taking place.

Before posting this type of thing, please consider that you are in effect informing people that your house is likely to be empty for that period. 

Once people start liking and commenting on the post, their friends or followers may then see that you are on holiday as well, which could be an alarmingly large number of people, and could then include someone who would like to pay your house a visit whilst you aren't there.

Insurance companies do also check social media if it is relevant to a claim, so if whilst on holiday your house gets broken into, and you claim off your insurance, they will likely check your social media for anything to suggest you advertised that your home was empty and ultimately may not pay out on the claim.

It is understandable that you may wish to show people that you have had a good time, but please consider waiting until you return from your holiday before doing so.

Feel free to share this message or post on social media. Further crime prevention advice is available on the Secured by Design website.

Regards

Jamie

Crime Reduction

Humberside Police